Pulasan

Pulasan is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia. It is a member of the Sapindaceae family, which also includes other popular fruits such as lychee, longan, and rambutan. The scientific name for pulasan is Nephelium mutabile.

Description

The pulasan tree is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 15-20 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate, with 2-5 pairs of leaflets. The fruit is oval in shape, similar to a lychee, but larger, typically 5-7.5 cm in diameter. The skin of the fruit is thick and leathery, covered with soft, short spines. The color of the fruit when ripe is usually deep red, though there are also yellow and orange varieties.

The flesh of the pulasan is translucent, juicy, and sweet. It surrounds a large, glossy seed which can be easily separated from the flesh. The seed is edible when cooked, but is usually discarded.

Cultivation

Pulasan is typically grown in tropical climates, as it requires high humidity and rainfall. It is propagated by seeds, which take about 10-14 days to germinate. The tree starts bearing fruit after about 7 years. The fruiting season is usually from August to October.

Uses

The primary use of pulasan is as a fresh fruit. It is often eaten raw, or used in desserts and beverages. In some regions, the seeds are roasted and eaten. The wood of the pulasan tree is also used in construction and furniture making.

Nutritional Value

Pulasan is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C and potassium. It also contains dietary fiber and antioxidants, which contribute to its health benefits.

See Also

• Tropical fruit
• Sapindaceae
• Nephelium